(AP) — Only 51% of Hawaiʻi public school teachers remained in the job after five years of work. Data from the state Department of Education shows the retention rate is little changed in recent years. The Honolulu Star-Advertiser reports the department had wanted to raise the retention rate to 60% by 2020. The department says retaining qualified and effective teachers for the long term is important because students benefit as teachers gain experience and expertise. The department also has to spend less time and money recruiting new hires when retention is higher.

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